50 PROOF is an Acoustic/Electric Classic Rock Band based in beautiful Vankleek Hill, Ontario. Members are Reid Masson (Lead Vocals, Bass); Shawn Hayley (Lead Guitar); Thaila Riden (Drums, Vocals) and Gilles Lemieux (Guitar, Harmonica, Vocals).
We play throughout Eastern Ontario and Western Quebec at festivals, parties, fundraisers and numerous other events. We play classic rock and country with an acoustic flavour, both with a full drum set and other times with a cajon drumbox. This allows us to fill out any large stage and also fit in any small venue, depending on the needs of the event.
First formed in the Spring of 2013, 50 PROOF has played at literally hundreds of festivals, public events, backyard parties and clubs over the past decade. The band is always available to play wherever there is a good time to be had.
We rehearse at The Grand Barn in Vankleek Hill, Ontario, in a spectacular vintage setting. With a full stage and equipment built and installed for a popular 1980s progressive rock band, The Grand Barn - with it's 25-foot high ceiling and absolutely massive floor space - is a great spot for 50 PROOF members to practice their Classic Rock chops, or to sit outdoors and play acoustic.
50 PROOF has played at numerous events throughout Eastern Ontario and Western Quebec, including the 2021 Prescott-Russell Canada Day Show, The Vankleek Hill Fair, The Family Food Band Jamboree, the Heritage May Show, Festival of Flavours, the Dalkeith Winter Carnival, Hudson St. Patrick's Day Parade, Williamstown Fair, Carleton University events and numerous other fairs and festivals. As giving back to the community is a top priority, the band also plays many fundraising events, including the Eastern Ontario Make a Wish Foundation events.
Initially a pure Classic Rock band, over the years 50 PROOF has expanded its Acoustic repertoire, as well as continuing to add new songs to the electric set list in order to be able to make each show a unique experience. The Acoustic side allows the band to fit into smaller clubs and spaces and has proven extremely popular with followers of the band.
If you would like to catch 50 PROOF in person there are numerous chances in 2024. We will be playing regularly at the Windsor Tavern in Vankleek Hill. We also play regular dates at The Neighbourhood Pub in Ottawa. Please contact any of those venues or check our schedule page for more information.
We will also be playing numerous local events in the area, all of which will be posted on our band schedule page.
